Incumbent Greenville Mayor Pat Dunn and challenger Allen Thomas appeared on WITN News at Sunrise Friday in a WITN exclusive interview. In fact, it was the first time the two had ever met.

Both Mayor Dunn and Thomas talked about their priorities for the City of Greenville. Mayor Dunn says she's been encouraged by many to run for re-election, while Thomas says it's time for a fresh perspective.

Mayor Dunn listed three priorities for her if she wins another term: revitalization downtown, crime and the special task force's recommendations, and working with county, regional and state authorities on economic development.

Thomas spoke about solving the crime issue, noting his close relationship with the North Carolina Crime Commission and looking to other cities for solutions in fighting crime.

Following the exclusive interview, Mayor Dunn and Thomas decided to continue their conversation over breakfast at Boulevard Bagel.

Both on the air and behind the scenes, the two were friendly and said they were looking forward to the campaign and the election. Thomas noted on the air that he thinks people would like to see a debate over how to solve crime in Greenville.

Filing to run for office in Pitt County concludes Friday at noon. Voter registration ends October 14. Early voting for the November 8 election runs from October 20 - November 5.

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Allen Thomas filed Thursday. Mayor Dunn returned our call Thursday night and said she has not met Thomas, but she looks forward to meeting him and looks forward to the campaign. She'll have an opportunity to meet Thomas Friday morning when they are both guests on WITN News at Sunrise.

Thomas is a married father of two and local businessman who most recently served as Chairman of the City of Greenville’s Planning and Zoning Commission and on the City of Greenville’s Board of Adjustment.

Discussing his reasons for running for the position, Thomas stated, “As we all know there are many issues on the minds of the citizens of Greenville today. The pattern of violent crime has reached a boiling point and it has to be addressed with equal force."

Thomas attended East Carolina University and the University on North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

For more information on his campaign, Thomas pointed to making contact via facebook at Allen Thomas for Mayor or email at athomasemail@gmail.com.

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